Utilization of a mobile agricultural weighing system to monitor and store ancillary operational data for diagnostic purposes on trailed and truck-mounted equipment

ABSTRACT

A method of operation of a machine control indicator located on a first machine includes the step of monitoring operational parameters of a second machine operationally associated with a first machine. Each of the operational parameters is associated with a common clock of the machine control indicator. The operational parameters are stored in a memory of the machine control indicator with a date and time stamp based on the common clock. The operational parameters are transmitted along with the date and time stamp to a user device separate from the first machine and the second machine. In one embodiment, the operational parameters comprise one or more of a weight value, a rotation value, a revolutions per minute value, a peak weight value, a gearbox temperature value, and a hydraulic pressure value.

The present application claims priority to U.S. Provisional ApplicationNo. 61/165,547 filed May 22, 2015, the disclosure of which isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

BACKGROUND

Agricultural machines may include various controls and sensors in orderto control operation of the various aspects of the machines. Anagricultural machine indicator (also referred to as an “indicator”)provides an interface through which a user can perform operations suchas modifying control parameters, options and/or settings and accessingmachine information such as operating conditions. The large numbers ofsettings and options indicators offer provide benefits and challenges tousers (also referred to as end users). On the positive side indicatorscan be customized to meet a wide variety of needs.

On the negative side when settings and options are setup incorrectly itcan be challenging for the user, the Original Equipment Manufacturer(OEM) Dealer, the OEM, and the indicator manufacturer (also referred toas the “indicator provider”) to find the setting, or settings, thatprevent the indicator from operating correctly.

This is especially frustrating when Tech Support from the indicatorprovider or the OEM have difficulties due to; language,miscommunication, and a lack of understanding from the user.

SUMMARY

Remote access to a machine control indicator (using a smart deviceand/or farm network), significantly increases the ability of the OEMsand indicator providers to support products that are becomingincreasingly complex. Problems and issues can be taken care of in lesstime which increases the efficiency of indicator provider and OEMSupport Departments. This is especially true in International Marketswhere language barriers that result in travel time for field servicecalls can be eliminated. New indicator setup and customization can occurquickly and with less confusion and mistakes.

In addition, the functionality described herein provides OEMs,especially Mixer OEMs, with the ability to more closely monitor theirequipment by providing access to an Hours of Use and a MaintenanceMessage functionality.

The need to provide improved methods of remotely accessing indicators tocorrect settings and options will only grow as a greater proportion ofindicators are used with advanced settings for wireless (such as Wi-Fi)and Data Acquisition and Data Exchange.

Capabilities for software updates add an additional element to the needfor remote access.

In one embodiment, a system and method provides a means to connect viaradio or directly with the indicator that provides a means to access andsetup the indicator as well as a means to update the software on theindicator.

Utilization of a Mobile Agricultural Weighing System to Monitor andStore Ancillary Operational Data for Diagnostic Purposes on Trailed andTruck-Mounted Equipment

In one embodiment, a method and system for monitoring trailed andtruck-mounted agricultural equipment uses a machine control indicator.The method and system provides the ability to transfer machine operationdata to diagnose any problems and help the operator use the machine toobtain the best machine performance possible.

In one embodiment, a machine control indicator system (also referred toas a scale indicator system) provides monitoring and recordingcapability for operational data on: system settings, weight, rotation,revolutions per minute, peak weights, gearbox temperatures, hydraulicpressures, and the minimum and maximum limits of this data, on mobileagricultural Seed Tenders, Planters, Seed Drills, Air Seeders, GrainCarts, or Feed Mixers. This system utilizes wired, wireless, or datatransfer devices such as USB Drives for the transfer of this data. Thesystem allows for the transfer of data required to diagnose drive andweighing system operation from the machine's location to anotherlocation via email or wireless communication (such as Wi-Fi), thusallowing for real-time user viewable data related to the operation ofthe machinery.

Existing methods and systems utilize multiple systems and devices toaccomplish the recording of the above noted operational performancedata. Machines must be equipped with separate systems for individuallymonitoring: weight, operating speeds, gearbox temperatures, andhydraulic system pressures. The result is that Operator, OEM DealerSupport Technician, or Manufacturer must compare data from multiplesources to determine correlations and root causes that result inincorrect operation or equipment failures. Due to inherent variances inoperational data collection it can therefore be difficult to properlydetermine the root causes and effects.

The method and system described herein employs the concept of utilizingthe electronics of the scale system to provide additional monitoring anddata collection of machine operational parameters related to: weight,rotation (On/Off), revolutions per minute, peak weights, temperatures ofgearboxes, and temperatures and pressures of hydraulic systems, and theminimum and maximum limits for each of these parameters, with the dateand time at which each event is recorded.

The Operator or Service Technician can download the recorded data usinga USB Memory Device, Wired Cable Connection via Serial or CANBUSCommunication, or wireless communication, to a computer or smart deviceequipped with a program or application that will display both the rawdata in tabular form and with a graphical means based on a timeline.

The graphical display of the data allows the viewer to easily determinewhen an event, or events, results in a concurrent effect on anothercomponent or the machine operating system as a whole.

A method of operation of a machine control indicator located on a firstmachine, according to one embodiment, includes the step of monitoringoperational parameters of a second machine operationally associated witha first machine. Each of the operational parameters is associated with acommon clock of the machine control indicator. The operationalparameters are stored in a memory of the machine control indicator witha date and time stamp based on the common clock. The operationalparameters are transmitted along with the date and time stamp to a userdevice separate from the first machine and the second machine. In oneembodiment, the operational parameters comprise one or more of a weightvalue, a rotation value, a revolutions per minute value, a peak weightvalue, a gearbox temperature value, and a hydraulic pressure value. Theoperational parameters, in one embodiment, are received from sensorslocated on the second machine. In one embodiment, the data from the userdevice pertaining to operation of one of the first machine and thesecond machine is received. Actuators associated with one of the firstmachine and the second machine are controlled based on the data from theuser device.

In one embodiment, the monitoring comprises receiving data from sensorslocated on one of the first machine and the second machine. The secondmachine trails the first machine in one embodiment and can be one of aseed tender, a planter, a seed drill, an air seeder, a grain cart, and afeed mixer. In one embodiment, the operational parameters aretransmitted to a customer service device via the user device.

In one embodiment, a method of operation of a machine control indicatorincludes the step of monitoring operational parameters of anagricultural machine. Each of the operational parameters is associatedwith a common clock of the machine control indicator. The operationalparameters are stored in a memory of the machine control indicator witha date and time stamp based on the common clock. The operationalparameters are transmitted along with the date and time stamp to a userdevice separate from the agricultural machine.

Diagnostic Monitoring and Recording of Hydraulic System Components onAgricultural Mixers

In one embodiment, an Animal Feed Mixer (Dairy or Beef) Scale indicatorsystem records Feed Mixer Operating Speed along with the operatingtemperatures and hydraulic & lube oil pressures of the mixer gearboxesand hydraulic drive system and notifies the operator and records thetemperature or pressures, along with the weight, date, and time, whenlimits have been exceeded.

The system records when the temperature and/or pressures of the mixergearbox(s) and hydrostatic drive system monitored by the scale indicatorsystem exceed limits along with the weight of material in the mixer, andthe operating speed of the main mixer auger, rotor, or reel (as notedabove), with the time and date. The system can also display a warningmessage that the temperature or pressure limit has been exceeded.

Agricultural Feed Mixers, whether mounted on a trailer frame or truckchassis do not usually have an electronic system that will displaywarnings regarding the operating temperatures and pressures of thesystem being out of norm (like the oil pressure and temperature warninglights on an automobile). Therefore a need exists to display warnings inorder to help protect the expensive components of the feed mixer's drivesystem.

In addition there is a need to record both, when the warnings aredisplayed, and how many times the warnings have been displayed. Thisinformation can be used by the machine owner to perform checks on hisemployee/operators, and by the OEM Dealer and Manufacturer to aid infailure cause and warrantee investigations.

Failure to heed the warnings can result in failures to gearboxes,hydraulic pumps, and/or hydraulic motors that are expensive to repair orreplace.

Furthermore it is useful to record the warning information with othermixer operational parameters that are happening at the same timeincluding the mixer operating speed and the weight of material insidethe mixer.

The system described herein consists of a machine control indicator thatalso includes sensor inputs for rotational speed, pressure, andtemperature.

The indicator is programmed with the required temperature and pressurelimits (high, low, or both) that a particular machine is designed tooperate within. These programming settings are secured by a “factory”access code that is not available to the end user.

When the limits of temperature or pressure are exceeded the indicatorcan display a “High Oil Temperature”, “Low Oil Pressure”, or “High OilPressure” warning on the display of the indicator in lieu of the weightinformation that is normally displayed. To clear the warning theoperator will need to press a specific key to acknowledge.

The indicator can, at the same time as the above, record the followingbackground information in an even record regarding the warning: Date,Time, Revolutions per Minute, Weight in Mixer, and the Temperature orPressure.

The event records are retained, in one embodiment, in non-volatilememory which cannot be deleted without a factory access code and aspecial key sequence. The event records can be downloaded though theindicator's USB port.

Recording Mixer Rotation Rate Along with Weight of Feed and Date andTime

An Animal Feed Mixer (Dairy or Beef) Scale system that records FeedMixer Operating Speed along with the Weight of Feed in the mixer overTime (with Date) is described herein.

The system can record the Rotations per Minute of the primary mixingauger(s), rotor, or reel of an agricultural Feed Mixer along with theweight of feed in the mixer with date & time.

When mixing feed for dairy and beef animals there 3 steps necessary toachieve a good mix. These are:

a. Loading the proper amount (by weight) of each feed ingredient: CornSilage, Haylage, Dry Hay, Soy Meal, Cotton Seed, etc.

b. Processing individual, or combined ingredients, to achieve thecorrect ingredient size. Feed ingredients from large round and largesquare bales of hay or baleage take time inside the mixer to beprocessed to the correct length. These ingredients are added to themixer first so that the mixer can process the bale (break down and cutup the material). The time the mixer is allowed to run with the firstingredient(s), before any other ingredients are added, needs to bemonitored and controlled.

c. Once the mixer is completely loaded with all ingredients the totallength of time the mixer mixes (actually the number of turns of themixer) is very important. If the mixer is run for too short of a timethe feed in the mixer will not be completely and uniformly mixed. If themixer is run for too long of a period of time the mixer will over-mixthe feed resulting in an over-processed mix with insufficient“length-of-cut” whereby the feed will not stimulate the rumen in the cowand the cow will not efficiently digest the feed.

It is important to note that the “Time” spent mixing is dependent on thespeed that the mixer is turning. The mix process is dependent on thenumber of turns of the mixer, not the time. For example; by carefulobservation the farmer finds that it takes 4 minutes at 20 rpm toachieve the correct mix. This equals 100 turns of the mixer. If thefarmer's father operates the mixer at ¾ speed (15 rpm) he will need torun the mixer for an additional minute (5 minutes total) to achieve thesame 100 turns of the mixer.

For this reason the speed at which the mixer operates over time is whatneeds to be measured and recorded in order to know the number ofrevolutions.

The system consists of:

a. A Scale Indicator that, in addition to weighing, is fitted with aRotation Counter sensor fitted to a main auger, rotor, or reel drivecomponent to both sense that the component is turning and to count therevolutions of the shaft.

b. The Indicator has a Setting to enter the correct ratio between therotation that the Rotation Counter is sensing and the rotation of themain auger, rotor, or reel. The Indicator uses this ratio to count therotations per minute that the main auger, rotor, or reel is turning. Inone embodiment, this setting is protected by a security access code toprevent tampering with the settings.

c. The Indicator system records both the weight of the individualingredients and the speed at which the mixer main auger, rotor, or reelis operating at over time (with date). The Indicator records thisinformation at periodic intervals with the interval being adjustable.

The output data from the system can be displayed in a spreadsheet orgraph showing Weight and RPM over Time.

From this data an indicator provider and/or the customer can produce adual line graph which will show Time on the horizontal “X” axis and two“Y” axis where “Y1” records Weight and “Y2” records the Mixer RPM.

With this information it is easy to analyze the process and steps ofloading the mixer, mixing the mix, and more as the feed is unloaded.

The concept of recording the Revolutions Per Minute while mixing, andthe Total Revolutions that take place to make a mix, of the Feed Mixeris beneficial to the indicator provider, machine provider, and machineuser.

By recording this information indicator provider can provide both theend user, and the manufacturer of the mixer, with data and informationthat is useful and important.

The farm owner/manager can determine if the employees operating themixer are following instructions and are operating the mixer at thecorrect speed for each step and for the correct amount of time.

For the OEM manufacturer this info will tell the OEM if; the mixer hasbeen over-sped, i.e. run at too high of a speed (such that it wouldcause damage), improper operation resulted in damage that is notwarrantable, mixing data that the OEM can use to help train and coachthe end user farmer in how to properly operate the mixer.

The system also senses the operating temperatures and hydraulic & lubeoil pressures of the mixer gearboxes and hydraulic drive system andnotifies the operator and records the temperature or pressures, alongwith the weight, date, and time, when limits have been exceeded.

Recording the Rotations per Minute of the primary mixing auger(s),rotor, or reel of an agricultural Feed Mixer along with the weight offeed in the mixer with date & time.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 depicts a system for remote indicator access according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 2 depicts a system for remote indicator access according to anotherembodiment;

FIG. 3 depicts a system for remote indicator access according to anotherembodiment;

FIG. 4 depicts a system for remote indicator access according to anotherembodiment;

FIG. 5 depicts a mixing profile according to one embodiment;

FIG. 6 depicts mixing profile and a mixing log according to oneembodiment;

FIG. 7 depicts a graph illustrating hours a machine is run at variousRPMs;

FIG. 8 depicts a flowchart of a method of operation of a machine controlindicator according to one embodiment; and

FIG. 9 depicts a high level block diagram of a computer.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 depicts a system for remote indicator access according to oneembodiment. As shown in FIG. 1, a tractor 100 has a machine attached. Inthis case, the machine is a feed mixer 102 for mixing ingredients to befed to animals. Feed mixer 102 is shown in the process of receivingingredients from front loader 104. Tractor 100 has a machine controlindicator 106 (also referred to as a scale display or scale indicator)which can be located in the cab of tractor 100 to provide information toa user. Machine control indicator 106 can be mounted in other locationsas well such as on feed mixer 102. Machine control indicator 106receives inputs from various sensors including rotations per minute(RPM) sensor 108, pressure sensor 110, and temperature sensor 112.Machine control indicator 106 is also in communication with load celljunction box 114 which receives data from load cells 116 and 118 (alsoreferred to as weight sensors) which can be used to provide weightinformation to indicator 106. In one embodiment, sensors 108, 110, and112, and load cell junction box 114 are wired to machine controlindicator 106. In other embodiments, various data can be transmittedfrom sensors wirelessly to machine control indicator 106. The data thatmachine control indicator 106 receives can be referred to as operationalparameters or operational performance data. In one embodiment, machinecontrol indicator 106 is also connected to various outputs such asalarms (e.g., 12 volt wired audible alarm).

Machine control indicator 106 is in communication with a user device 120which can be any electronic device capable of communicating with machinecontrol head 106. For example, user device 120 can be a smart phone ortablet. In one embodiment, user device 120 receives information frommachine control indicator 106 which can then be displayed via anapplication (also referred to as app) or program executed by user device120. User device 120 is also in communication with other devices vianetwork 122 which can be any type of network such as a wide area networkor local area network. In one embodiment, user device 120 communicateswith a customer service device 124 and other devices via a network 122,such as the Internet.

In one embodiment, information displayed by machine control indicator106 can also be viewed by user device 120. User device 120 can also beused to remotely interact with machine control indicator 106 in a mannersimilar to a user interacting directly with machine control indicator106. A user can also allow another user, such as a customer servicerepresentative to view information displayed by machine controlindicator 106. In one embodiment, user device 120 can act as a conduitto allow a user, such as a customer service representative, to interactwith machine control indicator 106 using customer service device 124.Customer service device, in one embodiment, is a desktop computer butcan be any type of device capable of communicating with user device 120and indicator 106. In one embodiment, machine control indicator 106 iscapable of communicating simultaneously with user device 120 andcustomer service device 124. Various communications can be facilitatedby machine control indicator 106.

FIG. 2 depicts one embodiment in which machine control indicator 202 isin communication with customer service device 208 via a user device 204and wide area network 206 (in this case, the internet). A customerservice representative can use customer service device 208 running aremote access program to connect through wide area network 206 and userdevice 204 to allow data to be transferred from machine controlindicator 202 to customer service device 208 and back. The transfer ofinformation can be used to provide capabilities including remote cabcontrol, menu setup setting transfer, other record transfer, etc.

FIG. 3 depicts one embodiment in which machine control indicator 302communicates with a customer service device 310 via a customer's localnetwork. As shown in FIG. 3, machine control indicator 302 is incommunication with customer's desktop computer 306 via the customer'swireless device 304 (e.g., a Wi-Fi router). Customer's desktop computer306 is in communication with customer service device 310 via network 308(e.g., the internet). In this embodiment, a customer service person canuse customer service device 208 running a remote access program toconnect to machine control indicator 302 through wide area network 308,customer's desktop computer 306, and customer's wireless device 304 toallow data to be transferred from machine control indicator 302 tocustomer service device 310 and back. The transfer of information can beused to provide capabilities including remote cab control, menu setupsetting transfer, other record transfer, etc.

FIG. 4 depicts one embodiment in which machine control indicator 402communicates with customer service device 410 via customer's computer404 (e.g., a laptop), customer's wireless device 406 and wide areanetwork 408 (e.g., the internet). Customer's computer 404 communicateswith machine control indicator 402 and transmits information receivedfrom machine control indicator 402 to customer service device 410.Customer's computer 404 also transmits information from customer servicedevice 410 to machine control indicator 402. The transfer of informationcan be used to provide capabilities including remote cab control, menusetup setting transfer, other record transfer, etc.

The wireless capability of the machine control indicator allows a userwith a user device to stand in the general vicinity of the indicator andcommunicate with the indicator. This wireless capability allows a userto move around a machine associated with the machine control indicatorand still view information from the indicator as well as control theindicator. As such, a user can perform various tasks without the need tobe within reach of the indicator. In one embodiment, a customer servicedevice can receive information directly from an indicator or via a userdevice. Various configurations which allow a customer servicerepresentative to view and/or modify indicator settings and informationor a user to view and/or modify indicator settings are possible usingone of the embodiments shown in FIGS. 1 through 4.

In one embodiment, a machine control indicator (e.g., 106, 202, 302, or402) is provided with wireless circuitry internally mounted. In oneembodiment, wireless circuitry is added to a machine control indicatorin the form of an external add on device. Such an external device, inone embodiment is connected to the machine control indicator via a wiredconnection, such as a wired connection to a serial port. In oneembodiment, a J905 connector, or other connector, is added to machinecontrol indictor to allow the machine control indicator to be connectedto other devices using, for example, an external radio module (ERM) orserial cable. In one embodiment, an internal diagnostic cable is locatedinside a machine control indicator that allows connection to otherdevices using, for example, an ERM or serial cable. In one embodiment,an internal diagnostic connection point (e.g., a header) is locatedinside each machine control indicator that allows connection to otherdevices using, for example, an ERM or serial cable.

Returning to FIG. 1, communication among machine control indicator 106,user device 120, and customer service device 124 facilitates multipleoperations as follows.

Communication facilitates bi-directional transfer of indicatorcalibration and menu settings to and through the application (referredto as an “app”) operating on user device 120. This allows servicecenters to connect to the indicator to backup and/or change theindicator's menu settings remotely. The indicator's menu settings can betransferred to and stored on the app to create a backup on the appdevice, to e-mail the settings to a customer service center for review,to transfer revised settings e-mailed from a customer service centerthrough the app to the indicator, and/or allow data located on the appto be accessible to e-mail and other apps.

In one embodiment, information provided by an indicator can be viewedremotely using various devices. In one embodiment, “cab control” allowsa user to view indicator information and interact with an indicatorremotely. For example, a device facilitating cab control can be locatedin a cab of front loader 104 shown in FIG. 1. Cab control allows a userin the cab of front loader 104 to see how much of an ingredient has beenadded to mixer 102 as the user is operating front loader 104 and may notbe in viewing range of an indicator associated with mixer 102.

Communication also facilitates real-time cab control via customerservice device 124. This provides a customer service representative withthe ability to interact with the indicator remotely in a manner similarto how a user can interact directly with the indicator. This allows aremote customer service representative to see everything a local cabcontrol app screen is displaying on a user device. It also allows theservice center to operate the indicator remotely (e.g., push keys, readthe display, change menu settings, etc.). It also allows the servicecenter to observe how a customer is running the indicator.

Communication also facilitates cab control via user device 120. Thisallows user device 120 to interact with the indicator remotely (e.g.,push buttons, read the display, change calibration and menu settings,etc.) via an app running on user device 120. It should be noted thatreal-time cab control via customer service device 124 and via userdevice 120 can occur simultaneously.

Communication also facilitates a rotation counter and/or timer on theapp. A rotation counter and/or timer provides a user with a timercountdown display and alarm activation functionality to allow theoperator to take the user device with them and leave the mixing area toperform other tasks until the mix finishes.

Communication also facilitates an hour meter. An hour meter value can bedisplayed on the app. An hour meter value can be transferred to the appto allow additional maintenance messages to be displayed in accordancewith OEM recommendations. In one embodiment, maintenance messages can beedited on the app. Editing can include editing of the message text to bedisplayed on the app and the number of hours at which the message is tobe activated. In one embodiment messages are displayed via a pop-up boxwith the message and a button such as “OK” or “Clear” which requires aresponse from a user. Hour meter value information can be transferred toand/or from a service center.

Communication facilitates display of rotations per minute (RPM) historyand/or analysis. FIG. 5 depicts graph 500 of a mixing profile accordingto one embodiment. Graph 500 depicts an RPM profile of how a user hasbeen running their machine which can aid in determining if the user ismixing correctly. In one embodiment, mixing profile data is captured asfollows.

Section A depicts data captured for each mixer load. Data is collectedfor the entire feed cycle including loading the mixer with ingredients,mixing the ingredients (mix time) and unloading of the mixer. In oneembodiment, data is captured for at least the last 50 loads.

Starting point 502 is when the gross weight meets or exceeds the “MixLog Start Point Weight” menu setting (default 300 lbs.) and pulses arebeing detected for the Rotation Counter (meaning the mix auger isrotating). The data logged for each mixer load at the “Start Pont”, inone embodiment, includes:

-   -   i. Current Gross Weight (should be near 0 lbs/kgs—6 number).    -   ii. Current Rotation Counter value (1234—Last 4 values of the        Mixometer).    -   iii. Current RPM value (1234—four numbers).    -   iv. CurrentTime (14:15:46—6 character date and 24 hour clock        with seconds)    -   v. CurrentDate (17MR15).    -   vi. Mix Load Number (123—Automatically increases for each load        and should rollover from 999 to 001.)

Example Data:

Mid-Point 504 is when the gross weight decreases by the new “Mix LogMid-Point Weight Tolerance” Menu setting (default 300 lbs.) This is todetermine when the user has finished the loading/mixing process and isstarting to unload the mixer. For example, a user adds and mixes feedingredients up to mid-point 504. At mid-point 504, a discharge door orgate of the mixer is opened so that the feed can be discharged from thefeed mixer for access by animals, such as livestock. A user may need tomove the feed mixer around an area in order to discharge feed at variouslocations. As shown in FIG. 5, after mid-point 504, the weight of feedmeasured decreases as the feed mixer is emptied. The speed of the feedmixer is detected and recorded during the time the feed mixer isdischarged. The method also supports shutting the mix auger OFF,pausing, and back ON again during the loading process. If the RotationCounter stops seeing pulses (i.e. they have turned OFF the mix auger),the “Total Mix Time” is paused and then continues to accumulate the“Total Mix Time” when Rotation Counter pulses begin again. The mix augermust be rotating to unload a feed mixer, so rotation counter pulsesshould be seen while unloading the 300 lbs. The data logged formid-point 504, in one embodiment, includes:

-   -   vii. Current Gross Weight.    -   viii. Current Rotation Counter value (1234—Last 4 values of the        Mixometer). This will be used to determine the number of        rotation counts between the starting point and the        mid-point—Mixer Loading Rotation Duration Counts (XXXX).    -   ix. Current RPM value (1234—four numbers).    -   x. Mixer Loading Duration Time (HH:MM:SS)—this is the length of        time between the starting point and the mid-point.    -   xi. Current value entered/stored for the Rotation Counter key.    -   xii. If batching: The total amount loaded identified by the        batching code.    -   i. Current Gross Weight (should be near 0 lbs/kgs—6 number).    -   ii. Current Rotation Counter value (1234—Last 4 values of the        Mixometer).    -   iii. Current RPM value (1234—four numbers).    -   iv. CurrentTime (14:15:46—6 character date and 24 hour clock        with seconds)    -   v. Current Date (17MR15).    -   vi. Mix Load Number (123—Auto increases for each load and should        rollover from 999 to 001.)

Example Data:

Stop Point 506 is when the gross weight decreases into the Zero/Balancepoint+the new “Mix Log Start Point Weight” described previously. Themethod also supports shutting the mix auger OFF, pausing and back ONagain during the unloading process. If the Rotation Counter stops seeingpulses (i.e. they have turned OFF the mix auger), the “Total Mix Time”is paused and then continues to accumulate the “Total Mix Time” whenRotation Counter pulses begin again. The mix auger must be rotating tounload a feed mixer, so rotation counter pulses should be seen whileunloading the 300 lbs.

The data logged for each mixer load at the “Stop Point”, in oneembodiment, includes:

-   -   xiii. Current Gross Weight (should be near 0 lbs/kgs).    -   xiv. Current Rotation Counter value (Mixometer).    -   xv. Current RPM value (1234—four numbers).    -   xvi. Mixer Unloading Duration Time (HH:MM:SS)—this is the length        of time between the mid-point and the stop point.    -   xvii. Total Time (includes seconds) while loading and mixing        (stops when the operator starts the unloading process).    -   xviii. Current Time (14:15:46—6 character date and 24 hour clock        with seconds)    -   xix. Current Date (17MR15).

Example Data:

The data can also be combined as shown below:

Example of all Three Sets of Data:

FIG. 6 depicts mixing profile 500 from FIG. 5 and also includes mixinglog 600. In one embodiment, data is captured every X number of seconds(e.g., 1-999, with a default of 15). This interval can be identified bya user via a menu setting. The timer interval is selected to provideenough detail to create a chart showing how a feed mixer was used. Inone embodiment, such data is captured for each mixer load. The data canbe collected for the entire feeding cycle including loading the mixerwith ingredients, mixing the ingredients (mix time), and unloading themixer. Data is stored when a user pauses the mixing cycle (i.e., norotation pulses). In one embodiment, data is recorded for at least thelast 50 loads.

Rotation pulse data (i.e., RPM) is saved beginning at starting point502. The data logged for each mixer load at start point 502 includes:

-   -   i. Once per load: Mix Load Number (123—Automatically increases        for each load and should rollover from 999 to 001.)    -   ii. Once per load: Mix Log Time Interval Seconds (123)    -   iii. Current Gross Weight (should be near 0 lbs/kgs).    -   iv. Current RPM value (1234—four numbers).

Example Data:

Data capture and storage for the mix log ends at stop point 506.

FIG. 7 depicts Hours/RPM graph 700 which shows hours a machine has beenrun at various RPMs. Mixers and other equipment typically have optimalspeeds. Recording speed information allows an OEM to know how an enduser is using a piece of equipment, such as a mixer. In addition,recorded speed information allows an OEM to determine if changes arerequired to better use the equipment (i.e., mix ingredients better).Because applications may vary, a flexible way to capture RPM isprovided. Some examples of possible menu settings include:

-   -   v. Capture every hour for RPM's from 0-99 RPM's.        -   1. RPM History Low Starting Point=0.        -   2. RPM History Low Resolution=1.        -   3. RPM History High Starting Point=50.        -   4. RPM History High Resolution=1.    -   vi. Capture every hour for RPM's from 0-49 RPM's and also look        at RPM's above 50, but at a lower resolution.        -   5. RPM History Low Starting Point=0.        -   6. RPM History Low Resolution=1.        -   7. RPM History High Starting Point=50.        -   8. RPM History High Resolution=5.    -   vii. Capture every hour for RPM's from 250-350 RPM's and        950-1050 RPM's.        -   9. RPM History Low Starting Point=250.        -   10. RPM History Low Resolution=2.        -   11. RPM History High Starting Point=950.        -   12. RPM History High Resolution=2.

In one embodiment, another method for capturing RPM includes:

-   -   viii. Add the capability to the indicator to record the amount        of time that the feed mixer is running and at what RPM at two        different RPM's.        -   13. Allow a maximum of 50 data points (each) The data point            value should support numbers up to 999,999,999 (ulong is            fine) to provide enough history.        -   14. Add Menu Settings to the indicator to tailor how these            data points are used:            -   a. RPM History Low Starting Point (default=0).            -   b. RPM History Low Resolution (default=1).            -   c. RPM History High Starting Point (default=50).            -   d. RPM History High Resolution (default=1).    -   ix. Allow these Menu Settings to be set remotely (by the App or        serially).    -   x. Allow the data points to be reset remotely to 0 (by the App        or serially). This clears ALL data points, not on an individual        basis.        -   15. Nice to Have—separate resets for Low and High history.    -   xi. Nice to Have—Use the “Low Starting point” to record ALL of        the hours for any RPM's at or below that RPM.    -   xii. Nice to Have—Use the last RPM data point of the “High        Starting point” to record ALL of the hours for any RPM's at or        above that RPM.

All of the data described above can be captured by a machine controlhead and various sensors. The data can be transferred to a customerservice center for remote viewing and analysis.

Returning to FIG. 1, communication between machine control indicator106, user device 120 and customer service device 124 also facilitatesdisplay of current machine RPM. This allows a user and a customerservice representative to see how the user is currently operating amachine, such as a feed mixer.

Communication also facilitates viewing of peak weight transfers in orderto determine possible equipment abuse issues. In one embodiment, peakweight transfer information is only available to a customer servicerepresentative and not a user.

Communication also facilitates transmission of data pertaining to userinput to a machine control indicator. In one embodiment, key pressesreflecting a user interacting with a machine control indicator arerecorded and can be transmitted to a customer service representative forviewing and analysis. This information can help a customer servicerepresentative understand how a user is interacting with the machinecontrol indicator.

Communication also facilitates transmission of current alarm statusinformation on a cab control app. In one embodiment, the current alarmstatus allows a user to know when to shut off a machine, such as anauger, when away from the scale while loading ingredients from bins,tanks, and/or silos.

Communication facilitates bi-directional transfer of total mixed rations(TMR) tracker feedline batching feedlines. Total mixed rations, in oneembodiment, are recipes used to produce proper feed mixes. In oneembodiment, TMR information is tracked by a machine control indicatorand can be retrieved and displayed by a user device and/or a customerservice device. A customer service representative can use TMRinformation received from a machine control indicator to determine how aTMR recipe should be adjusted based on information from a user afterexamination and analysis of feed output from a mixer. A customer servicerepresentative can also transmit a new and/or modified recipe to amachine control indicator in order to correct an issue with a feed mix.The new and/or modified recipe could be created using a feed managementcomputer program (such as TMR Tracker).

In one embodiment, machine control indicator 106 of FIG. 1 hasadditional sensor inputs (e.g., analog and/or digital inputs). In oneembodiment, additional sensors can be used to provide data to machinecontrol indicator 106 in order to record parameters, such astemperature, and produce alarm outputs to alert a user to certainconditions. For example, temperature sensors can be placed in machinegearboxes in order to track the temperature of gear fluid in the gearboxand provide warnings to a user as necessary. In one embodiment, warningmessages and/or alarms are provided to a user when a temperature exceedsa value for a temperature parameter set via a menu setting.

In one embodiment, the machine control indicator has a menu settingwhich allows a user to customize an alpha-numeric message, such as awarning message, to be displayed when a certain condition occurs, suchas a maximum temperature being exceeded. For example, a maximumtemperature being exceeded can produce a warning message, such as“HITEMP”, on a display of the machine control indicator. In oneembodiment, a warning message interrupts a displayed weight and themessage flashes for 3 seconds. Next, a scaled sensor value is flashedfor 3 seconds before the indicator returns to displaying a weight. Thedisplaying of warning messages and scaled sensor values can be repeated,in one embodiment, every minute, until the input goes below the maximumsetting.

In one embodiment, a menu selection of the machine control indicatorallows a user to indicate that an alarm light is to be activated when amaximum setting has been reached. For example, a user can set an alarmlight to illuminate when a maximum temperature has been met and/orexceeded.

In one embodiment, a menu selection of the machine control indicatorallows a user to indicate when an alarm (such as an audible alarm) is tobe output. For example, a user can set an alarm to be output when amaximum temperature has been met and/or exceeded.

In one embodiment, the machine control indicator includes a menu settingwhich allows a user to calibrate and/or scale sensor inputs. In oneembodiment, a selection offered by the machine control indicator allowsa sensor value to be displayed on a large display such as a sixcharacter LCD.

Machine control indicator 106, in one embodiment, can store sensorvalues. For example, the last 5 peak scaled sensor reading can bestored. In one embodiment, values to be stored per sensor input include:a scaled sensor value (i.e., gear box 1 temperature—1234), time(14:10:05), Date (05FE08), and elapsed time over the “maximum setting”value (HHH:MM:SS). This data can be transferred to a customer servicedevice and/or to a web-server for storage and later viewing. Scaledsensor reading, such as temperatures) can be included in both SectionA-mixing details (shown in FIG. 5) and Section B-Mixing log (shown inFIG. 6).

Example of Updated Section A Data:

With respect to Section B data, the data for the mixing log is savedbeginning at the starting point described in Section A. The data to belogged for each mixer load at start point 502 includes:

-   -   iv. Once per load: Mix Load Number (123—Automatically increases        for each load and should rollover from 999 to 001.)    -   v. Once per load: Mix Log Time Interval Seconds (123)    -   vi. Once per load: Maximum Sensor 1 Setting (1234)    -   vii. Once per load: Maximum Sensor 2 Setting (1234)    -   viii. Current Gross Weight (should be near 0 lbs/kgs).    -   ix. Current RPM value (1234—four numbers).    -   x. Current Scaled Sensor 1 value (1234—four numbers).    -   xi. Current Scaled Sensor 2 value (1234—four numbers).        -   Repeat v until “stop point”.

A data stream including the data above, according to one embodiment, isas follows:

Example Data:

In one embodiment, data storage ends for the mix log at stop point 506shown in FIGS. 5 and 6.

FIG. 8 depicts a flow chart of a method 800 of operation of a machinecontrol indicator 106. In one embodiment, the method utilizes a mobileagricultural weighing system to monitor and store ancillary operationaldata for diagnostic purposes on trailed and truck mounted equipment. Atstep 802, operational parameters of a second machine (e.g. feed mixer102 of FIG. 1) operationally associated with a first machine (e.g.tractor 100) are monitored. The monitoring, in one embodiment, isperformed by the machine control indicator 106 (shown in FIG. 1) locatedon a first machine (such as tractor 100 shown in FIG. 1). At step 804,each of the operational parameters are associated with a common clock ofthe machine control indicator. The common clock allows variousparameters to be tracked using the common clock so that they can becompared with to one another based on time of occurrence. At step 806,the operational parameters are stored in a memory of the machine controlindicator with a date and time stamp based on the common clock. At step808, the operational parameters are transmitted, along with the date andtime stamp, to a user device (e.g., user device 120) separate from thefirst machine and the second machine. In one embodiment, the operationalparameters comprise one or more of a weight value, a rotation value, arevolutions per minute value, a peak weight value, a gearbox temperaturevalue, and a hydraulic pressure value. The operational parameters, inone embodiment, are received from sensors located on the second machine.For example, a feed mixer trailed behind a tractor can be fitted withvarious sensor that send data to the machine control indicator locatedin tractor.

At step 810, data is received from the user device pertaining tooperation of one of the first machine or the second machine. Forexample, the data can pertain to operation of tractor 100 or feed mixer102 shown in FIG. 1. At step 812, actuators associated with one of thefirst machine and the second machine are actuated based on data receivedfrom the user device. For example, depending on the configuration oftractor 100, one or more operations such as engine speed, steering,and/or drive speed (e.g., operations controlled from within the cab oftractor 100) can be controlled using data received from the user device.In one embodiment, the monitoring comprises receiving data from sensorslocated on one of the first machine and the second machine. The secondmachine, in one embodiment, trails the first machine and can compriseone of a seed tender, a planter, a seed drill, an air seeder, a graincart, and a feed mixer. In one embodiment, the operational parametersare transmitted to a customer service device from the user device.

Machine control indicator 106 of FIG. 1, machine control indicatorsshown in other figures, and other components can be implemented using acomputer. A high-level block diagram of such a computer is illustratedin FIG. 9. Computer 902 contains a processor 904 which controls theoverall operation of the computer 902 by executing computer programinstructions which define such operation. The computer programinstructions may be stored in a storage device 912, or other computerreadable medium (e.g., magnetic disk, CD ROM, etc.), and loaded intomemory 910 when execution of the computer program instructions isdesired. Thus, the method steps of FIG. 8 can be defined by the computerprogram instructions stored in the memory 910 and/or storage 912 andcontrolled by the processor 904 executing the computer programinstructions. For example, the computer program instructions can beimplemented as computer executable code programmed by one skilled in theart to perform an algorithm defined by the method steps of FIG. 8.Accordingly, by executing the computer program instructions, theprocessor 904 executes an algorithm defined by the method steps of FIG.8. The computer 902 also includes one or more network interfaces 906 forcommunicating with other devices via a network. The computer 902 alsoincludes input/output devices 908 that enable user interaction with thecomputer 902 (e.g., display, keyboard, mouse, speakers, buttons, etc.)One skilled in the art will recognize that an implementation of anactual computer could contain other components as well, and that FIG. 9is a high level representation of some of the components of such acomputer for illustrative purposes.

The foregoing Detailed Description is to be understood as being in everyrespect illustrative and exemplary, but not restrictive, and the scopeof the inventive concept disclosed herein is not to be determined fromthe Detailed Description, but rather from the claims as interpretedaccording to the full breadth permitted by the patent laws. It is to beunderstood that the embodiments shown and described herein are onlyillustrative of the principles of the inventive concept and that variousmodifications may be implemented by those skilled in the art withoutdeparting from the scope and spirit of the inventive concept. Thoseskilled in the art could implement various other feature combinationswithout departing from the scope and spirit of the inventive concept.

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method of operation of a machine controlindicator located on a first machine and associated with operation ofthe first machine, the method comprising: monitoring operatorinteraction with the machine control indicator; monitoring firstoperational parameters of the first machine, the first operationalparameters received directly from sensors located on the first machine;monitoring second operational parameters of a second machineoperationally associated with the first machine, the second operationalparameters received directly from sensors located on the second machine;associating each of the first operational parameters received directlyfrom the sensors located on the first machine with a date and time stampbased on a clock of the machine control indicator; associating each ofthe second operational parameters received directly from sensors of thesecond machine with a date and time stamp based on the clock of themachine control indicator; storing the first operational parameters andthe second operational parameters in a memory of the machine controlindicator with their associated date and time stamps; storing operatorinteraction information in the memory of the machine control indicator:transmitting the operational parameters along with their associated dateand time stamps to an electronic device separate from the first machineand the second machine; transmitting the operator interactioninformation to the electronic device; receiving data from the electronicdevice pertaining to operation of one of the first machine and thesecond machine; and controlling actuators associated with one of thefirst machine or the second machine based on the data from theelectronic device.
 2. The method of claim 1, wherein the secondoperational parameters comprise one or more of a weight value , arotation value, a revolutions per minute value, a peak weight value, agearbox temperature value, and a hydraulic pressure value.
 3. The methodof claim 1, wherein the second machine trails the first machine, thesecond machine comprising one of a seed tender, a planter, a seed drill,an air seeder, a grain cart, and a feed mixer.
 4. The method of claim 1,further comprising: transmitting the first operational parameters andthe second operational parameters to a customer service device via theelectronic device.
 5. An apparatus comprising: a processor; and a memoryto store computer program instructions for operation of a machinecontrol indicator located on a first machine and associated withoperation of the first machine, the computer program instructions whenexecuted on the processor cause the processor to perform operationscomprising: monitoring operator interaction with the machine controlindicator; monitoring first operational parameters of the first machinethe first operational parameters received directly from sensors locatedon the first machine; monitoring second operational parameters of asecond machine operationally associated with the first machine, thesecond operational parameters received directly from sensors located onthe second machine; associating each of the first operational parametersreceived directly from the sensors located on the first machine with adate and time stamp based on a clock of the machine control indicator;associating each of the second operational parameters received directlyfrom sensors of the second machine with a date and time stamp based onthe clock of the machine control indicator; storing the firstoperational parameters and the second operational parameters in a memoryof the machine control indicator with their associated date and timestamps; storing operator interaction information in the memory of themachine control indicator; transmitting the operational parameters alongwith their associated date and time stamps to an electronic deviceseparate from the first machine and the second machine; transmitting theoperator interaction information to the electronic device; receivingdata from the electronic device pertaining to operation of one of thefirst machine and the second machine; and controlling actuatorsassociated with one of the first machine or the second machine based onthe data from the electronic device.
 6. The apparatus of claim 5,wherein the second operational parameters comprise one or more of aweight value , a rotation value, a revolutions per minute value, a peakweight value, a gearbox temperature value, and a hydraulic pressurevalue.
 7. The apparatus of claim 5, wherein the second machine trailsthe first machine, the second machine comprising one of a seed tender, aplanter, a seed drill, an air seeder, a grain cart, and a feed mixer. 8.The apparatus of claim 5, the operations further comprising:transmitting the first operational parameters and the second operationalparameters to a customer service device via the electronic device.
 9. Acomputer readable medium storing computer program instructions foroperation of a machine control indicator located on a first machine andassociated with operation of the first machine, which, when executed ona processor, cause the processor to perform operations comprising:monitoring operator interaction with the machine control indicator;monitoring first operational parameters of the first machine, themachine control indicator associated with operation of the firstmachine, the first operational parameters received directly from sensorslocated on the first machine; monitoring second operational parametersof a second machine operationally associated with the first machine, thesecond operational parameters received directly from sensors located onthe second machine; associating each of the first operational parametersreceived directly from the sensors located on the first machine with adate and time stamp based on a clock of the machine control indicator;associating each of the second operational parameters received directlyfrom sensors of the second machine with a date and time stamp based onthe clock of the machine control indicator; storing the firstoperational parameters and the second operational parameters in a memoryof the machine control indicator with their associated date and timestamps; storing operator interaction information in the memory of themachine control indicator; transmitting the operational parameters alongwith their associated date and time stamps to an electronic deviceseparate from the first machine and the second machine; transmitting theoperator interaction information to the electronic device; receivingdata from the electronic device pertaining to operation of one of thefirst machine and the second machine; and controlling actuatorsassociated with one of the first machine or the second machine based onthe data from the electronic device.
 10. The computer readable medium ofclaim 9, wherein the second operational parameters comprise one or moreof a weight value, a rotation value, a revolutions per minute value, apeak weight value, a gearbox temperature value, and a hydraulic pressurevalue.
 11. The computer readable medium of claim 9, wherein the secondmachine trails the first machine, the second machine comprising one of aseed tender, a planter, a seed drill, an air seeder, a grain cart, and afeed mixer.
 12. A method of operation of a machine control indicator fora tractor associated with operation of the tractor, the methodcomprising: monitoring operator interaction with the machine controlindicator; monitoring first operational parameters of the tractor, thefirst operational parameters received directly from sensors located onthe tractor; monitoring second operational parameters of a trailerattached to the tractor, the second operational parameters relating to afeed mixer associated with the trailer, the second operationalparameters received directly from sensors located on the trailer;associating each of the first operational parameters received directlyfrom sensors located on the tractor with a date and time stamp based ona clock of the machine control indicator; associating each of the secondoperational parameters received directly from sensors located on thetrailer with a date and time stamp based on the clock of the machinecontrol indicator; storing the first operational parameters and thesecond operational parameters in a memory of the machine controlindicator with their associated date and time stamps; storing operatorinteraction information in the memory of the machine control indicator;transmitting the operational parameters along with their associated dateand time stamps to an electronic device separate from the tractor andthe trailer; transmitting the operator interaction information to theelectronic device; receiving data from the electronic device pertainingto operation of one of the tractor and the trailer; and controllingactuators associated with one of the tractor or the trailer based on thedata from the electronic device.
 13. The method of claim 12, wherein thetrailer comprises a feed mixer, the second operational parameterscomprising a weight value pertaining to a weight of feed in the feedmixer, a rotation value indicating whether an auger of the feed mixer isrotating, a revolutions per minute value identifying a speed the augeris spinning, a peak weight value identifying a peak weight of feed inthe feed mixer, a gearbox temperature value identifying a temperature offluid in a gearbox of the feed mixer, and a hydraulic pressure valueidentifying a pressure of the fluid in the gearbox.